Practice Kind Words. Learning to speak with kindness? It’s a day by day choice. When you flub up, back up, apologize and say it nicer. You might even try doing a filter check before letting the words slip between your lips.

Practice Saying Yes. A new technique in the bedroom? It’s bound to feel awkward the first few times, but how fun it is when it becomes more natural and it’s something to look forward to. (I have to admit it’s a major rush when you can routinely wow your husband).

Practice Generosity. Giving without expectation. That is oftentimes one of the most challenging parts of a relationship. But it is also one of the most freeing. Being generous doesn’t have to take a lot of work. Kiss your sweetie 10 seconds instead of 2. It’s the little things that matter most.

Practice Marital Success. One of the smartest things couples can do is to mirror their marriages after couples successfully married for decades. Do you know a couple happily married for more than 25 years? They’re a great place to start. And if not, there are 50 inspiring ones here.

Practice Listening. Hearing your husband’s heart? Ask a question. Listen. Ask another question. When you find a good question, hold on to it. Husbands can change over time, so the adventure never ends.

Practice Loving…Even Better. Which one of us could say we have no need to be loved a little more? Is there even such a thing? When you practice loving your spouse….even better, the most wonderful thing happens: They return the love.

Practice Teamwork. Teamwork makes the dream work. My husband and I have teamed up for years encouraging married couples. Paul’s site, The Generous Husband, and mine, The Generous Wife, have been two of the greatest blessings of our lives. Never underestimate the power of teaming up on everything from little to out of this world.

Never let a clumsy start scare you off. It’s just the start of the process that will get you to accomplishment. Keep at it. Practice and practice some more.